The initiation involves young men (called the morani) typically aged between 12 and 25 years old, who have reached puberty and are not part of the previous age-set. Local tradition dictates the precise sequence of events of this elaborate ritual and varies depending upon which part of Kenya or Tanzania the Eunoto happens just once every 15 years. Here in central Kenya, the day started with the ritual slaughter of an ox and the elders will give a small piece of raw meat (known as orikingamati) to each of the initiate – one junior warrior will be given the honour of being the first to drink the animal’s blood.

In a quiet corner, the women gather in their finery and listen to an elder ‘teacher’ speak words of wisdom.  Particularly striking is the traditional beaded headdress and bid necklace that can also be worn by men.  All Maasai women are expected to learn the jewellery making craft. Eventually, the ceremonial dances begin first with small groups of women who shuffle dance as their ceremonial clothes flap and decorations clang in time with the ritual chanting.  Several elders in turn will then make their presence known and seemingly enter into a trance displaying the intense emotion and spiritual feeling the occasion brings.

Later, mixed-sex groups congregate into large circles and continue the dancing and singing where nearby bands of warriors whose height and grace in their jumping (an extreme form of pogo) is an attempt to attract the opposite sex! All the family join in the festivities and there’s great excitement and fun for the children – for the young boys this moment is likely to trigger a dream that their time will come!  The colors, dust, cooked food and smoke from open fires, dance and the bustle of sounds add to an unforgettable atmosphere and experience.  The celebration continues far into the night and ends with a new wave of warriors transformed into manhood who will now return to their villages and put their acquired wisdom to use for the good of the community.